Sources reviewed October 27, 2026 · Confirm current rules with the agency
When coverage is required
Indiana requires most businesses with employees to carry workers' comp. Coverage starts on a worker's first day, not after a trial period. If you think an exception applies, check with the Workers' Compensation Board or your insurer. Do not assume you are exempt just because your business is small or someone works odd hours.
Owners, contractors, and exceptions
Ask directly about working owners, contractors, and any industry exceptions before you leave someone off the policy. Make a list of everyone who does the work, with their role, ownership share, and work location. Have your insurer tell you which forms or certificates fit your real setup. A standard contractor agreement is not enough on its own.
If an employee is injured
Workers should tell you right away. The Board warns that waiting more than 30 days can put benefits at risk. You must report an injury to your insurer within seven days of learning about it if it causes death or needs care beyond first aid. Your insurer then reports it to the Board online. Send the first report quickly and add wage and time-off details when you have them.
Operating without coverage
Indiana requires you to keep coverage in force and show proof when asked. If you do not send proof within ten days of the Board's request, it can charge $100 per day. Failing to report injuries or post the required notice can bring fines of $50, $150, or $300, depending on how many times it happens. Without coverage, you also still owe injured workers' benefits yourself. Ask the Board what it would mean for your business before you let a policy lapse.
How to arrange coverage
Buy a policy from a licensed insurer or confirm the Board has approved you to self-insure. Ask the claims handler where to send the first report and how to share treatment or work limits. Tell the worker who their claim contact is, and keep proof of what you sent, so a handoff does not delay care or benefits.
Benefits and return-to-work planning
A work injury can lead to medical care, time off work, a lasting disability, or benefits for family members if a worker dies. Who qualifies, waiting periods, how wages are figured, and benefit limits all depend on state law and the facts of the claim. Ask your insurer which benefits it is looking at and what records it needs. Go by the doctor's work limits, not your own guess about what the worker can do. If you can offer lighter work, describe the duties and hours clearly and plan it with the doctor and your insurer.
Preparing an accurate cost estimate
Gather payroll by job and location, a description of each type of work, details on working owners, subcontractor records, and your past claims. Ask the insurer to confirm your job classes, how the rate is figured, any experience modifier, the minimum premium, fees, and audit terms. This site's calculator uses a base rate that you enter. It does not give a state-approved rate or a real quote. Compare offers using the same numbers, and track staff and work changes during the year so the final audit is easier.
Forms, posters, and notices
These links go straight to Indiana’s official forms. Your insurer can often send a poster with your policy details already filled in.
- Worker's Compensation Notice poster
English and Spanish versions.
- Injury reporting and compliance
Report injuries that need more than first aid to your insurer within 7 days.
Weekly benefit limits
These limits cap the wage replacement checks an injured worker can get. Medical care is paid separately. Limits change every year, so check the source for the latest figures.
- Waiting period
- The first week is paid only if the worker is out more than 21 days.
Weekly checks are two thirds of the worker's average weekly wage, up to a maximum set by law.
Check a contractor’s coverage
Indiana links to an online coverage search and a separate contractor search.
Owner exemptions and elections
An independent contractor who does not choose coverage can get a clearance certificate from the Department of Revenue. Owner choices are usually made through your insurance policy. Ask your insurer which owners are included or left out, and get the answer in writing.
Frequently asked questions
Is workers' comp required in Indiana?
Yes for most businesses with employees. Coverage starts on the first day of employment, not after a probationary period.
Do business owners need workers' comp in Indiana?
Working owners and contractors need a separate review. Ask the insurer which opt-out choices or certificates fit your arrangement instead of relying on a generic contractor agreement.
How long does an employee have to report a work injury in Indiana?
Employees should report right away, because notice delayed beyond 30 days can put benefits at risk. Employers report qualifying injuries to their insurer within seven days.
What happens if a Indiana business doesn't have workers' comp?
The Board can charge $100 per day if proof of coverage is not provided on request, plus penalties for failing to report injuries or post notices. Uninsured employers remain responsible for benefits.
How do I get workers' comp insurance in Indiana?
Buy from a licensed insurer or get Board approval to self-insure.
How much does workers' comp cost in Indiana?
Cost depends mostly on your job class codes, the payroll in each class, your experience modifier, and the insurer's rates and minimum premium. Ask a licensed insurer or agent for the base rate for your class code in Indiana, then use this site's calculator for a rough estimate. Your final premium is set at the yearly audit.
Your next steps
Official sources & further reading
Indiana WCB: employee eligibility and noticeIndiana WCB: reporting complianceThis summary is for learning, not legal advice. Exceptions and changes may apply. If anything here differs from the official agency or the law, they are what count.